Nigerian boxer Gabriel Olanrewaju dies after collapsing during fight in Accra

The boxing world is in mourning following the sudden death of Nigerian boxer Gabriel Oluwasegun Olanrewaju, who collapsed in the ring during a bout against Ghana’s John Mbanugu at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Despite swift medical intervention and emergency care at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

The match was part of Fight Night 15 in the Ghana Professional Boxing League. Olanrewaju appeared to be in good form until the third round, when, with about 15 seconds remaining, he staggered and collapsed against the ropes without taking a decisive hit. Referee Richard Amevi immediately halted the fight and called for medical assistance.

The Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA) confirmed that Olanrewaju had undergone the necessary medical assessments before the fight and was deemed fit to compete. GBA President Abraham Kotei Neequaye has reported the incident to local authorities and informed Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams.

Olanrewaju, fondly known as “Success,” had a professional boxing career marked by 13 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws. He won the Nigerian Light-Heavyweight title in 2021 and later claimed the West African Boxing Union title in 2023.

While the exact cause of death remains unknown, preliminary reports suggest cardiac arrest as a possibility. An autopsy has been scheduled, and the GBA has vowed to conduct a full investigation into the incident.

His passing has raised renewed concerns about health screenings and safety protocols in professional boxing. The boxing fraternity across Ghana and Nigeria continues to mourn the loss of a dedicated athlete.

By: Linda Akite